In Thrifty Green, Short offers the very best of what she learned in her year off the grid, as well as wisdom gleaned from dozens of other folks living both off the grid and on, eccentric and ordinary. She takes each of our most precious resources-heat, power and light, water, food, garbage, transit, and stuff-and shows how to make excellent choices in each area that also make sense for your life.

Energy is truly the world's most vital commodity. It makes modern societies possible, and the decisions made regarding it have far-reaching repercussions. Every day stories about the price of oil, the resurgence of nuclear power, or the latest clean energy alternative can be found in mainstream news outlets across the country. Yet despite its high profile, energy remains largely misunderstood. People are confused, intimidated and generally discouraged from learning about energy, partly because the topic is so large and opaque, but also because the resources that do exist fail to provide an overall picture the average reader can understand. Here, in easily accessible language accompanied by simple illustrations of difficult concepts, the authors lay out the basics of energy in a palatable and refreshing way. Readers are treated to a vivid presentation of the basics of energy science, alongside the politics, economics, and social issues that impact its harnessing, distribution, and use. Anyone interested in how energy truly works will find answers in these pages that shed light on the past, present, and future of world energy.

Keeping appliances free from dirt and dust can help them run efficiently. Air filters keep dirt out of the system so it runs properly. Lower heating and cooling costs by checking the air filter monthly and replace it as necessary. Keep the thermostat set at the most comfortable level.

Help the refrigerator keep cool by vacuuming the coils every three months or so, keeping them dust free. You can check the seal around the fridge by placing a piece of paper in the door as you close it. If the paper is held firmly in place the seal is good.

The EnergyGuide Label tells you the estimated energy consumption and yearly operating cost.

Now-a-days dishwasher and washing machines offer lots of choices for energy conserving wash and rinse cycles. Cycles vary on the amount of water used and can fluctuate the water temperature that is needed. With the right detergent, washing and rinsing with lower water temperatures could get most items clean. And don't forget to remove the dryer lint after each use of the dryer. And make sure the dryer hose is properly connected and free of lint.

Energy efficient choices can save you about a third on your energy bill. The Energy Star logo identifies energy-efficient appliances and is a government program that offers businesses and consumers energy-efficient solutions, making it easy to save money while protecting the environment.